I remember the first time I stumbled across Mr. Choi’s taco shop. It was way back in 2005. When I saw the sign “초이스 타코스,” I misread the transliteration as “Choice Tacos.” At any rate, it sounded interesting, so I ventured in. Because of the countless disappointments that had previously befell me trying to find edible Mexican in Seoul (e.g., tacos filled with pineapple, tortillas made from crepe batter, honeyed bulgogi tacos etc.), I admittedly had my sights set low. But I was pleasantly surprised with the quality and price of the selection here. Whenever I’m in the area — and sometimes even when I’m all the way across town — I swing over to Chois’ to satisfy that hankering (that anyone from the western US likely gets about once a week) for some Mexican food.

Recommended menu items: I’m a big fan of the chicken burritos. But I recently tried the steak quesadilla — just to, you know, mix it up a little after a five-year spell of order invariability — and it was awesome.

The Burrito Speed Eating Contest is currently underway. Any amateur Joey Chestnuts or Kobayashis should give it a shot. Grand-Prize winner gets a coupon for 50 free burritos!

Getting there: From Shinchon Station, head towards Yonsei University. When you get to the first major intersection (you’ll see U-plex and its big pipe thing on the left), take a right on the road that meanders off in a diagonal. Continue about 50 meters and you’ll see it on your right.